Our Nominations Service supports women interested in governance positions within the public sector. These frequently asked questions (FAQs) may help you navigate the public sector board nominations process.

Will you put my name forward for everything?

No. Your name will not be forwarded for every nomination request. Agencies request the skills, qualifications, and experience they need and we match candidates carefully with the requirements of each position.

Is this a jobs database?

No. This is not a service to find a job. We're looking for people to serve on government boards, committees and advisory groups. However, most public sector board roles are paid, and the rates will be set under the Cabinet Fees Framework.

If I am offered an appointment, can I turn it down?

Yes. You are not obliged to accept an appointment if it is offered to you.

Are my details confidential?

The information we hold on the database, and any profiles the Ministry generates from the information you provide, will only be used by our Nominations Service. 

We treat your information in strict confidence and in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020. 

The information you provide is stored securely in our database.

When you register, the Ministry can share your information with other agencies or Ministers for consideration of appointments. We will only do this without your knowledge if another New Zealand public sector agency requests nominations in confidence and we believe that you are a good fit for the role.

Read the full privacy statement regarding the Nominations Service.

How can I check the information you have about me?

You can check, update, or withdraw your details anytime on the Boards Ready Nominations database. 

If you want to discuss the registration or maintenance of your profile on the Nominations Service, email us at boards@women.govt.nz.

Can I nominate someone else?

No. If you think someone you know would be great on a government board, committee, or advisory group, encourage them to register with the Nominations Service.

Individuals must provide their details to us directly to maintain the confidentiality of that information. However, in some instances, you may be able to share board roles with your network – we will let you know if you are able to do so.

I've just graduated from a tertiary institution, should I register on this Service?

Congratulations! Most agencies are looking for people with extensive senior experience, although increasingly government agencies are also keen to encourage rangatahi into governance roles. 

There is nothing stopping you from registering on the database and updating it as you go, and we encourage you to take up any workshops or training opportunities we provide.

Remember to update your skills and experiences as you start your career and include any transferable experience in your database profile.

Where can I go to find out more about governance or governance training?

The Ministry for Women has a Leadership Learning Hub, which has a range of online resources and courses.

There are also many private and professional organisations that offer governance training including:

What other nominations databases are there?

Several other government agencies also have nominations services and we encourage women, as appropriate, to also consider joining.

The agencies with nominations services include:  

Public sector board roles are often advertised under the “Boards and Governance” category on the jobs.govt.nz website. 

You could also consider signing up to receive updates from Appoint Better Boards and Community Governance Aotearoa about current governance vacancies.